Defender Cameron Norman says Newport County AFC have learned lessons from their defeat against Southampton which they will use to continue their positive start to the league campaign.
Norman wasn't part of the matchday squad in midweek as County exited the Carabao Cup against a ruthless Saints side, but witnessed the Rodney Parade atmosphere for the first time since his arrival in the summer window.
And, while the defender highlighted the strength of the side which Ralph Hasenhuttl opted to play in south Wales, he says his team-mates can use the defeat as fuel to kick on in the league.
“It was good to be at the ground, that was the first time I was there with all the fans so that was a good aspect of it.” Norman said.
“If that was their line-up for their game on Saturday then nobody would bat an eyelid. But, of course, we hold ourselves to high standards so there were certainly areas of our game as a team that we feel we could’ve done better.
"But it’s important that we learn from those sorts of things."
The Exiles return to Sky Bet League Two action this weekend with a trip to the Peninsula Stadium to take on Salford City, who are still in search of their first victory of the new campaign.
Gary Bowyer's side missed out on the top seven last season, although they have been tipped as promotion contenders this term, with former Exiles Liam Shephard and Tom King among their summer acquisitions.
And despite their tough start to the new campaign after taking two points from their opening four games, Norman is expecting them to make life uncomfortable for the Exiles.
“They’ve got a good squad and one that’s always going to be competitive at this level," added Norman.
"It’s a big game, one that we’re going into with confidence and looking forward to. We’ll be going there with no fear and hoping for a good result."
